Philippines, Brazil agree on new flights

MANILA—Daily flights between the Philippines and Brazil, South America’s largest country, may start soon following the approval of new air rights between the two countries this week.

The  on Wednesday announced that the Philippine and Brazilian governments had signed an air agreement.

Under the accord signed by the Philippine air panel this week, a total of seven flights a week are now allowed between Manila and any point in Brazil. The agreement also includes an unlimited number of flights between any point outside of Manila to any point in Brazil.

There are currently no direct flights between the Philippines and any country in South America. The deal is the first air service agreement (ASA) between the Philippines and Brazil.

Negotiations for the new air deal were initiated by the Philippines at the request of flag carrier Philippine Airlines, which has plans to expand in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia.

Also included in the deal are fifth-freedom rights between the two countries, CAB Executive Director Carmelo Arcilla said. This will allow local airlines to reach other points in Latin America via Brazil. This also gives Brazilian carriers the right to reach other Asian points through the Philippines.